Hard to believe given Ryder's past history and the circumstances of what happened. I highly doubt Ryder would have been attacked like this by two parishoners outside a Wellington church on a Sunday afternoon. Ryder may not have been drinking or been at the bar, but those two guys must have.

Why would two guys physically assault Ryder without provocation and in the absence of this being a robbery or some other personal gain?

good to hear he is doing better.
But this guy has disciplinary issues , drinking problems.
Hope he recovers & stays away from alcohol & live a disciplined life, but I'm afraid he will ever come back as a cricketer, such a good batsman.